Methods of detecting signals from subjects using hydro-insensitive alternating current responsive composites

Abstract

A method is disclosed of detecting an output signal that is representative of an alternating electrical signal from a subject. The method includes the steps of: providing a monitoring sensor on the subject, wherein the monitoring sensor includes a conductive element and a composite material that includes a polar material that is substantially dispersed within a polymeric material; receiving the alternating electrical signal from the subject such that the composite changes its dielectric constant responsive to alternately ascending and collapsing voltages of the alternating electric signal from the subject; and providing an output signal via the conductive element responsive to changes in the dielectric constant of the composite that are representative of the alternating electric signal from the subject.

Description

PRIORITY INFORMATION[0001]The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 410,988 filed on Apr. 10, 2003, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60 / 371,306 filed Apr. 10, 2002.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]The invention relates to polymeric materials that are used to conduct electrical signals, and relates in particular to conductive adhesives that are used with medical monitoring sensors that are placed directly on a patient, such as an electro-cardiogram (EKG) sensor.[0003]Electrically conductive pressure-sensitive adhesives for use in biomedical applications are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,848,353. Since such conductive materials typically depend on the presence of water, however, the material must be maintained in a sealed environment until being used. See also, U.S. Pat. No. 5,143,071, which discloses non-stringy adhesive gels for that are hydrophilic.[0004]Such substances must be isolated from th...

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